Prince George to Quesnel
Prince George to Quesnel
Where the Fraser turns south: Gateway to the Cariboo
Prince George → Quesnel
This is a 2-Day canoe journey defined by change and momentum—from broad agricultural valleys to dramatic canyon walls. A classic Fraser River passage rich in wildlife, wide-open country, and geological drama.
Day 1 — Rolling hills and wide open spaces – Stoner → Blackwater river
Here the Fraser has flowed away from the Rocky Mountain Trench, squeezed through Fort George Canyon, out into the foothills of Prince George, and made a dramatic left turn southward to the ocean. The canoe journey sets off just south of Prince George at Stoner. This is the gateway to the Cariboo where the terrain softens into a rolling landscape with open benches and working farmland. It makes for long, steady glides and relaxed and contemplative paddling.
There is plenty of nature and greenspace, including Fraser River Provincial Park, where wildlife is abundant. Watch for river otters in back channels, salmon holding in slower water, and bald eagles perched high above the banks. Seasonal migrations bring flocks of snow geese and fish ducks, while bears are often seen feeding along the river’s edge.
Camping at the confluence of the Blackwater and Fraser rivers in this section feels distinctly Cariboo—broad horizons, rolling benches, and a powerful river moving steadily south.
The atmosphere is open and grounded rather than enclosed. You’re camped in rolling plateau country, with the steady current as your soundtrack.
With big-sky sunsets and expansive night skies, it’s a place that feels communal — perfect for good food, long conversations, and watching the rivers gather themselves together before continuing their flow toward Quesnel.
Day 2 — Blackwater river → Quesnel
As you approach Quesnel, the river narrows again and the scenery sharpens entering Cottonwood Canyon. Towering white sand cutbanks and steep cliffs rise from the water, creating one of the most visually striking passages on this stretch of the Fraser. Light reflects off the white canyon walls as the current gathers purpose, delivering a powerful and memorable finale.
Pull in to shore at Lhtako Dene Park at the confluence of the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers. Named for the Lhtako Dene people, which means “where the waters meet”, this confluence was the main Lhtako Dene settlement site prior to European settlement. At the park, each paddler can invite up to 2 guests to join in a Salmon BBQ dinner to regale them with tales of your journey and celebrate the Fraser River Challenge.
Why this stretch is special:
Farmland, grasslands, foothills, and canyon landscapes in one journey
Overnight campout on the Mighty Fraser River
Outstanding wildlife viewing potential
Striking views of Cottonwood Canyons
Salmon BBQ dinner to celebrate the trip
Dënéndeh
Lheidli T’enneh
Simpcw/Secwepemcúl’ecw (Secwépemc)
Tŝilhqot’in Nen
Stoner
